He was in the form of God but did not count equality with God

Phil. 2:5-11, Lk. 14:15-24. In today's first reading, Paul quotes from an early Christian hymn to Jesus, that summarises a vibrant spirituality of humility. Our attitude to life must be modelled on Christ "who, though was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness." As eternal Son of God, Jesus did not cling to His divinity but “emptied Himself” of His status, to be born as child and live a human life. Then He lived a life of total service, right up to the ultimate sacrifice: “even death on a cross.” Paul’s hope is that we learn to live such a life of loving service that we can be emptied of self-love and be dedicated to serve the interest of others. Today's Gospel reinforces this lesson so that we do not set our preferences ahead of what God wants us to do.

Jesus offers a parable of a great banquet to which invitations had already gone out. The variety of responses are reminder of what lame excuses we sometimes make, for not doing what we ought to do. “I’d really love to come, but unfortunately this other thing has cropped up..." Guests who had initially accepted the invitation made excuses and failed to show up, just as the meal was ready to be served. They let themselves be distracted by various hobbies and attachments, good in themselves but not enough to refuse God’s invitation. As a result of those refusals, a surprising invitation goes out to the kind of people who would hardly ever be invited to such a party but because they have no cherished hobbies or prior commitments, they are delighted to respond. The parable calls us to be attuned to the grace of the present moment and not to let the good things of this world to so absorb us that we cannot respond to the Lord’s invitation.

May the Lord help us to put on the 'cap of faith', wear 'the cloak of integrity', 'fragrance of holiness', 'shoes of goodness' and be covered with Christ-like attitude! Amen!! Stay safe and have a great day!!!

Revd Fr Samuel Frederick.